Ram Chandra (Babuji)

Ram Chandra (Babuji), also known as Ram Chandra of Shahjahanpur, was an Indian spiritual guru and founder of the Sahaj Marg system of meditation (also known as the Natural Path). He was born on February 2, 1899, in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, and died on April 19, 1983.

Ram Chandra, affectionately called "Babuji" (a term of respect meaning "father"), developed the Sahaj Marg system as a simplified approach to Raja Yoga, emphasizing the practice of transmission (Pranahuti) by a qualified guide. He believed that direct transmission of spiritual energy could accelerate spiritual progress and make the practice accessible to modern individuals.

Babuji succeeded Ram Chandra of Fatehgarh (Lalaji), from whom he received spiritual training. After Lalaji's death in 1931, Ram Chandra of Shahjahanpur continued the lineage and further refined and propagated the Sahaj Marg system. He established the Shri Ram Chandra Mission in 1945 as the organization to promote and manage the practice.

His teachings are documented in several books, including "Efficacy of Rajayoga in the light of Sahaj Marg," "Commentary on Ten Commandments of Sahaj Marg," and "Towards Infinity." These writings outline the principles and practices of Sahaj Marg, emphasizing simplicity, naturalness, and the importance of the guide-disciple relationship.

Ram Chandra (Babuji) is revered by followers of Sahaj Marg worldwide as the master who made the path accessible and relevant to contemporary life. His legacy continues through the Shri Ram Chandra Mission and its network of practitioners.